ULS High Schoolers Bring Spooky Science to Elementary Students

This Halloween season, high school science students at the University Laboratory School (ULS) under the guidance science teachers delighted the younger grades with a special “Spooky Science” event. The collaborative effort engaged students from kindergarten through 2nd grade in interactive experiments designed to make science both accessible and fun.

Joanna Stewaet, Steve Babcock, Corey Reminoque, Mary Ellen Day and Brian Simpson's high school classes put together a range of hands-on experiments that brought the thrill of science to life with a Halloween twist. The experiments, designed to suit young learners, included activities such as "potion testing", "exploding pumpkins", "flying ghosts" and a "candycorn catapult". Each activity not only captivated the young audience but also introduced scientific principles, from basic chemistry and physics to the importance of observation and hypothesis testing.

The high school students led small groups of elementary students through the experiments, explaining concepts in an age-appropriate manner and ensuring every child had a chance to participate. This experience was not only enjoyable for the younger children but was also enriching for the high schoolers, who practiced leadership and communication skills while deepening their own understanding of scientific principles through teaching.

High school teachers designed the event to create a bridge between different school levels, fostering a sense of community and inspiring a love of science in ULS’s youngest students. Stewart explained, “Science is about exploration and wonder, and there’s no better time than Halloween to bring out the magic in science. Watching our high school students share their knowledge and enthusiasm with the younger kids was rewarding for everyone involved.”

The event was a resounding success, with both high schoolers and elementary students eagerly looking forward to next year’s Spooky Science session. The younger students left with a sense of awe and newfound curiosity (and a few treats), while high schoolers gained valuable mentoring experience and a reminder of just how fun science can be.